How to Move Commercial Gym Equipment Safely and Efficiently

Relocating or rearranging a commercial gym is a significant undertaking. The sheer weight and bulk of equipment like treadmills and squat racks present major challenges. This guide provides a step-by-step process for moving your valuable assets safely, minimizing risk of injury and equipment damage.

Phase 1: Planning and Preparation

Proper planning is 90% of the battle. Do not skip this phase.

1. Inventory and Assess

• Create a complete list of all equipment to be moved.
• Find the user manual for each piece. AltiusFit provides digital manuals for all equipment.
• Note the weight and dimensions of each item.
• Identify equipment that requires professional disassembly (e.g., cable crossover machines).

2. Gather the Right Tools

• Furniture Dollies: Heavy-duty, rated for at least 1,000 lbs.
• Moving Straps/Slings: For securing items to dollies and lifting.
• Tool Kit: Wrenches, Allen keys, screwdrivers, socket set.
• Protective Materials: Moving blankets, bubble wrap, stretch wrap.
• Gloves: Heavy-duty work gloves for better grip and protection.

3. Measure Everything

• Measure all doorways, hallways, and elevators along the moving path.
• Compare these measurements against your equipment dimensions.
• Plan the exact route for each large piece of equipment.

Phase 2: Executing the Move

Step 1: Clean and Prepare the Equipment

Clean all equipment thoroughly. This provides better grip and prevents dirt from getting into mechanical parts during the move. Unplug all electronic equipment and securely wrap cords.

Step 2: Disassemble When Necessary

Disassembly makes equipment lighter and more manageable. Focus on removing:

• Weight stacks (remove the pin and slide plates out if possible)
• Detachable arms, leg press seats, and console masts
• Pedals and handlebars on bikes and ellipticals
• Important: Keep all screws, nuts, and bolts in clearly labeled plastic bags.

Step 3: The "Lift and Roll" Technique

For heavy items like treadmills or leg press machines:

1. With your team, carefully tilt one end of the equipment up.
2. Slide a furniture dolly underneath.
3. Slowly lower the equipment onto the dolly.
4. Secure the equipment to the dolly with moving straps.
5. Move slowly, with one person guiding the front and another steering from the back.

Step 4: Protecting Surfaces

Wrap sensitive parts like consoles, touch screens, and upholstery with moving blankets or bubble wrap. Use stretch wrap to secure the blankets and keep moving parts from shifting.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Placement

1. Position and Unwrap

Move the equipment to its final designated spot before unwrapping and reassembling. This minimizes the risk of scratching the equipment or your floors.

2. Reassemble Carefully

Follow the user manual's instructions for reassembly. Start with the largest components and work your way to the smaller ones. Do not overtighten bolts, as this can damage the frame or threads.

3. Test and Calibrate

Once reassembled, plug in and test all electronic equipment. Run treadmills and ellipticals to ensure belts are aligned. Check that weight stacks move smoothly and selector pins engage correctly.

When to Call a Professional

While you can move much of your equipment yourself, consider hiring professionals for:

• Full gym relocations to a new address.
• Moving large, complex machines like cable jungles or Smith machines.
• If you lack the proper tools or manpower.
• If your insurance does not cover damages during a self-move.

Conclusion

Moving commercial gym equipment is a challenging but manageable task with proper planning and the right technique. Always prioritize safety over speed. By following these steps, you can protect your investment and ensure your AltiusFit equipment continues to serve your members for years to come.

If you're planning a new gym layout or a full relocation, our AltiusFit space planning experts can provide detailed guidance on equipment placement for optimal flow and member experience. Contact us for a free consultation.